Died On This Date (October 21, 2011) Edmundo Ros / Famous Trinidadian Bandleader
Edmundo Ros
December 7, 1910 – October 21, 2011
Edmundo Ros was a Trinidad born but England based Latin jazz singer, musician and bandleader who came to prominence during the 1940s. Ros’ first instrument of choice was the euphonium, a wind brass instrument, which he played in the Venezuelan Military Band from the late ’20s to late ’30s. Soon after, he received a proper music education from London’s Royal Academy of Music. It was during that time that he played a handful of recordings by Fats Waller. In 1940, Ros formed a rumba band which eventually swelled to 16 musicians and was renamed Edmundo Ros and his Orchestra. The band became very popular throughout Europe, playing for royalty and celebrities alike. His 1949 78 record, “The Wedding Samba,” sold over 3 million copies, while his Rhythms Of The South LP of 1958 sold well over a million. In all, Ros made more than 800 recordings throughout his career. He also ran his own record label and one of London’s most popular nightclubs of its era. Edmund Ross made his farewell performance in 1994, and passed away at 100 years old on October 21, 2011.
Thanks to Dan Del Fiorentino at NAMM for the assist.